Justice E.O. Osinuga of an Ogun State High Court sitting in Abeokuta has ordered the Gbengande of Ososa, near Ijebu Ode , Oba Dr. Adetoye Alatishe, to pay N500 million to an industrialist and philanthropist, Dr. Sulaiman Adegunwa for libel.
Oba Alatishe was also ordered to apologise and publish a retraction in three national newspapers, namely Punch, ThisDay, and The Nation, for the malicious publication against the claimant.
The libelous publication was published in the City People Magazine on January 15 and Obanta Newsday on August 7, in 2019.
The case was filed at the State High Court, Isabo, Abeokuta, on Friday, April 11, 2025.
Justice Osinuga agreed with the claimant that the defamatory petition against the claimant and the publications were demeaning to the claimant’s high reputation.
The judge equally awarded N500,000 as cost of litigation against the royal father.
The court also issued an order of perpetual injunction restraining the monarch from maligning the reputation of the claimant, a renowned philanthropist and statesman, who had worked earnestly to earn the national award of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), the Asiwaju of Ijebuland, a high profile leader in Ososa, and have contributed immensely to the development of the community, and the nation in general.
Also in her judgement, Justice Osinuga affirmed that Oba Alatishe relied on hearsay to arrive at the content of the libelous publication.
“When the Kabiyesi was asked how he came about the information as contained in the letter, he said some people told him yet Kabiyesi was not ready to disclose these people,” she stated.
The judge also held that it was wrong and so unwise for the royal father to have refused to tender an apology knowing full well that he has no evidence to substantiate his allegations against the industrialist.
Justice Osinuga held that a defamatory case had been strongly established against the monarch and therefore ruled in favour of the claimant.
The libelous suit with number 4CJ/205/19 and dated November 25, 2019, was filed by the claimant over what he considered as a defamatory petition letter that Oba Alatishe reportedly wrote against him to former Governor Ibikunle Amosun on January 7, 2019.
The monarch was equally alleged to have sent copies of this petition to the then Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Commissioner for Urban and Physical Planning, the Commissioner for Police as well as the Special Adviser to former Governor Amosun on Urban and Physical Planning, among others.
Oba Alatishe had in this letter alleged that “Alhaji Adegunwa at a gathering had promised to demolish the entire resuscitated and reconstructed Gbengande Market and turn same to a palace, while the present palace will be forcefully turned to a townhall through the office of the Special Adviser on Urban and Physical Planning”.
The monarch warned that “If this threat is not urgently checked and nipped in the bud, it is capable of leading to a monumental breach of peace, serious confrontation and total breakdown of law and order in the community”.
Considering the alleged falsehood of the petition, Asiwaju Adegunwa resorted, first, to peaceful resolution, through his legal counsel to request for an apology and a retraction of same in three national newspapers but the traditional ruler reneged.
He, however, sought legal redress in court given the damage the libelous publication had caused, because City People has national readership, and the dent on his image as a notable industrialist and philanthropist of global repute.
Self-growth – the desire to become a better version of oneself – is key to achieving financial freedom in every profession, experts have said.
This was the subject of discussion at the Lagos Archdiocesan Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) Day 2025, with the theme: “Self-growth and financial freedom: lessons from disruptors.”
Chairman of the local organising committee, Kelechukwu Uzoka, a lawyer, said the theme was both timely and compelling.
“In a world where change is constant and innovation shapes every sphere of life, young professionals must become resilient, forward-thinking, and financially literate,” he said.
He said the event was designed to enable members to reflect on how disruptors – “people who dared to think differently and act boldly” – have transformed industries and carved paths of influence.
The keynote speaker was the immediate-past Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan.
The panel members were MD/CEO of Techno Oil, Nkechi Obi; financial expert and founder/CEO of OO Value Investment, Mrs Oghogho Osula and tech expert and co-founder of Vpay, Chibuzo Ike.
Founder/CEO of Market Doctors Nigeria, Dr Yetunde Ayo-Oyalowo, and marketing communications strategist/co-lead of Superteam Nigeria, Harrison Obiefule, were the other panellists.
Akinwuntan stressed the need to learn, relearn and unlearn, saying they are critical for success.
Those who want to succeed, he said, should not be afraid of failing.
“It is not about falling, but about what happens afterwards. A can-do spirit does not mean you’re right all the time,” he said.
On how to attain financial freedom, the former bank chief advised young professionals to distinguish between consumption and investments, urging them to focus on acquiring assets that add value.
“Save 70 per cent of what you earn,” he advised, highlighting the need to start planning for retirement early while not living above one’s means, such as acquiring expensive rather than functional vehicles or gadgets.
Another secret of success, he said, is to look out for opportunities, which is what disruptors do.
According to him, disruptors see opportunities amid problems and try to solve them for the common good.
He highlighted qualities and characteristics for success: vision, strategy, innovation, execution, growth, market share, returns, values and integrity, and faith.
Akinwuntan also stressed the importance of leadership.
“It is what you do, not a designation,” he said, adding that a leader must have the courage to go forward despite fear of failing.
Stressing the importance of integrity, he advised: “Seek mentoring. Learn from other people’s mistakes and successes. Above all, do not follow earthly purpose to miss out on the ultimate prize.”
Dr Ayo-Oyalowo said self-growth, to her, means a professional knowing that he or she “is made for more”.
She recalled how she left her well-paying job and took up an internship in an oil and gas firm to gain experience in her entrepreneurial journey.
Underscoring the importance of humility and willingness to learn, she said: “Be humble and drop whatever airs you have.”
Mrs Obi warned against going into a line of business simply because others are successful in it.
“Experience is important. Without self-development, financial independence will be impossible,” she said.
Ike recommended being adaptable, saying: “You have to be constantly aware of trends to see how you can apply them to your own context.”
Mrs Osula added that one does not need to earn too much to set something aside for investment.
Obiefule made the point of being prayerful, saying there can be no success without divine favour.
“My support for this noble event is rooted in our belief that faith and professionalism are not mutually exclusive but beautifully intertwined.
“It is my sincere hope that this gathering ignites fresh passion, fosters genuine connections, and reminds every young professional here today that they are called not just to succeed, but to serve, to lead, and to shine,” he stated in his goodwill message.
LAYCP President, Azi John Ogbeide, said the event was significant as it coincided with the association’s silver jubilee anniversary in a universal jubilee year.
Highlighting key achievements and plans of his executive committee in five months, he urged “all professionals to take a walk with us through this wonderful journey of evolution to becoming a more mature association that is the pride of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos”.
Aside from reviving a defunct YCP chapter with four new opens to be revived in the next two months, the executive plans to train 1000 members and youth for career growth, organise mentorship programmes, constitute a board of patrons, organise the first social day in October, among others.
The day began with a holy mass at 8.30 am, during which members were reminded that even as they strive to excel professionally, they must remain rooted in their faith and be guided by God’s purpose in their lives.
Justice Ibironke Harrison of a Lagos High Court has ordered the release of a minor, Friday (other name withheld) awaiting trial for three years for alleged membership of unlawful society.
The minor was granted freedom on April 17 following applications filed on his behalf by Deputy Director, Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (LACON), Mrs. Grace Adenubi.
LACON secured his freedom with the support of International IDEA -led Legal Aid Coordination Committee (LACC).
The team discovered the minor during a visit paid to the Adigbe Borstal Institution Abeokuta, Ogun State sometimes last year.
One of the cases taken up during the visit and assigned to Mrs. Adenubi, was Charge Number: LD/20468c/22.
The Minor, Friday, was charged at age 14, with ‘being a member of unlawful society’ before Justice Harrison of High Court Lagos sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square(TBS).
During first appearance of defence counsel in court on Wednesday, October 2024, DPP counsel was present.
The boy had a case mate, an adult, the second defendant, by name Waheed Alasho, who was produced from Kirikiri Medium Prison.
Mrs. Adenubi discovered that the whereabouts of the 1st defendant, the minor, was not known.
“ In fact his name was to be removed from the charge due to non-production so that the court can proceed with the 2nd defendant ‘s case alone, meaning that he can be forgotten in custody.
The team informed the court that the 1st defendant was being detained at Adigbe Borstal Home, Abeokuta.
Justice Harrison consequently issued a reproduction warrant on the centre for his production at the next date being October 23, 2024.
On the adjourned date of October 23, 2024, the minor was not still produced due to distance and the obvious mobility challenge being faced by the centre.
The LACON Deputy Director, Mrs. Adenubi applied to court for his transfer to the Special Correctional Centre Oregun, Lagos, which was granted.
Although, the transfer was not easy on the Oregun Centre due to their over population and mobility challenge, it yielded result as they obeyed the court order.
Consequently, Friday, now a 17-year-old minor, was eventually produced, arraigned with the 2nd defendant being represented by ‘The Gavel’ and accelerated trial was ordered.
The prosecution could not produce any witness in court and the case was therefore struck out for want of diligent prosecution on the Thursday, the April 17, 2025.
The minor, Friday , and his case mate, who never knew each other before but for this case, were released on the order of the court and counseled by the Judge and Defence Counsels.
Friday, now in SS1, was released to his mother who was present in court.
He had the opportunity to continue his education at the Abeokuta Borstal Home.
In her reaction, Mrs Adenubi said the scenario is not peculiar to Friday’s case.
She said cases abound in Lagos involving boys that are being detained at Adigbe Borstal Home who are being frustrated due to non production.
Mrs Adenubi urged Lagos state Government, Judiciary and all stakeholders in the Justice sector to rise up to this challenge.
“There’s need for alternative Correctional Center to be provided for the boys in conflict with the law in Lagos State moreso as Adigbe Borstal Home is already over populated as well as the Special Correctional Center for boys, Oregun, Lagos.
“Pending when the above is done, Virtual Hearing facility is urgently needed.
“Many more Human Rights Advocates are also needed, to take up such matters.
“So let’s jointly come to the aid of the boys and other vulnerable indigent members of our society and ensure that their rights as enshrined in our constitution are protected” she stressed.
She also expressed appreciation, on behalf of LACON to ROLAC and International IDEA for their continuous support.
Plan with portrait of ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, (SAN)
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Charles Mekwunye, has stressed the need for transparency and meritocracy in judicial appointments.
He spoke in Lagos ahead of the launch of a new book chronicling the judicial career of former Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
The book, titled “Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, CJN, GCON Through the Cases”, is set to be launched on May 8 in Abuja.
It is written by Dr Mekwunye and Ayo Olanrewaju, who is the Deputy Editor-in-Chief/Chairman, Editorial Board of the Nigerian Weekly Law Reports (NWLR).
It offers a detailed exploration of Justice Ariwoola’s years in service in Nigeria’s appellate courts and his significant contributions to the development of the nation’s jurisprudence.
Dr. Mekwunye said: “The appointment of judges must reflect integrity, intelligence, and a commitment to upholding the rule of law.”
He noted that the judiciary remains the last hope of the common man and must be preserved through the selection of competent and principled judges.
The launch is expected to attract dignitaries from across the country, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, who will chair the occasion, as well as leading members of the legal community.
According to Mekwunye, the book critically examines Justice Ariwoola’s judgments, shedding light on his judicial philosophy and impact.
He said Justice Ariwoola, known for his adherence to legal precedent, did not deliver a dissenting judgment throughout his career, yet managed to advance legal principles through his consensus rulings.
Mekwunye further urged Nigerians to approach judicial criticism with understanding and respect for the rule of law.
“The judiciary does not function based on social media narratives. Court decisions are strictly rooted in the evidence and legal arguments presented,” he added.
The book is considered a significant contribution to Nigeria’s legal scholarship and a call for deeper reflection on the principles guiding the nation’s judiciary.
It is no longer business as usual in Ikorodu as detention without court order is now being adhered to by ranks and file at police stations across the area.
This is because there is a renewed synergy between the members Police Duty Solicitors Scheme (PDSS) to curtail detention of suspects without court order.
Chairman, Ikorodu Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ms. Olawunmi Adeola disclosed this while briefing newsmen on activities mapped out the 2025 Law Week of the association.
The theme is: “Through the Bar: Inspiring Change, Embracing Growth”.
She said the PDSS combined with the Court Duty Solicitors have significantly reduced the number of suspects in detention in police cells through the legal services being provided by the bar team.
Adeola and Vice Chairman of the association, Olajide Abiodun explained that guidelines for arresting persons are not stated in the law and that this was why the Police are still arresting persons for wandering.
“But once we visit any station, they are released to us. Wandering is not an offence or how do you explain wandering. That is why police charge them for breach of public peace”, he said..
Ms, Adeola said that it is also now an offence for parents to interfere in the process of prosecution of suspects in defilement cases after formal complaints have been made to the police.
She said any such interference amount to interference with the process of justice.
“Once a case is reported, we transfer it to Panti for investigation and prosecution”, she said.
Vice Chairman, Olajide further explained that the Human Rights session scheduled for Bukka Hut would deal extensively on Human Rights and attract the likes of Femi Falana(SAN), Olakunle Edun (SAN) and Aigboho Martins amongst others.
The Law week programmes commenced last Friday with a Jumat Service held at Companion Islamic Centre, Ishawo.
The association on Saturday held free Legal Clinic for indigent members of the society at the Bar Centre and followed the exercise by a variety Night and Cocktail Party at De-Kings Hotel, along Itoikin road, Ikorodu.
A Church Service was held on Sunday at Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministry at Itamaga, in Ikorodu.
Members of NBA Ikorodu held a Human Rights Awareness walk on Monday at the Ikorodu High Court and seminar at Bukka Hut, at Ayangburen Road, Ikorodu thereafter.
She said the late Babatunde Olusola Benson(BOB) Annual Lecture will hold on Tuesday at Peak Stone Events Centre, along Lagos Road.
The NBA, Ikorodu Chairman described the BOB lecture as significant pointing out that it would discuss the Local Government autonomy based on last year’s Supreme Court judgment and whether it is a myth or reality
While a Law Reform Symposium will hold the next day on Wednesday, April 30 at the Exclusives located along Ireshe Road, Ikorodu..
The Bar Dinner will hold same day at Peachstone Events Centre, Lagos Road.
Activists and stakeholders have called for the domestication of the Safe School Declaration (SSD) as a law.
They stressed that the safety of schools is not just a matter of infrastructure or security measures but about creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive without fear.
The call was made at a public hearing in Lagos on the imperative for a legal framework and resource plan for safe schools in Nigeria.
It was organised by the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), a non-profit and human rights organisation, in collaboration with National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) Nigeria Chapter, the Replington Education Initiative (REI), and the Syndicate in Supporting Women and Children Initiative, supported by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF).
There have also been mass abductions of pupils and students in Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Lagos, Niger, Ogun, Yobe and Zamfara states, along with cases of kidnap of lecturers.
The national advocacy project aims to promote the effective implementation of the SSD in Nigeria.
The key messages of SSD are that every child has a right to education without fear of attack, every university should be a safe place for students, every school should be a protected space for students to learn, and every teacher, professor, and school administrator should be able to teach and research in conditions of safety, security and dignity.
Founding Director of WARDC, Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, said despite Nigeria’s endorsement of the SSD in 2015 and subsequent ratification in 2019, the widespread insecurity in schools across the country underscores the urgent need for coordinated, actionable frameworks.
“This project seeks to address critical gaps in awareness, legal backing, and financing by mobilising civil society, strengthening stakeholders’ capacity, and advocating for a legally binding framework and state-level costed implementation plans.
“Focused on the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos, and Bauchi states, the initiative aims to amplify community voices, foster accountability, and ensure that safe and secure education becomes a reality for every child in Nigeria.
“Although Nigeria adopted the SSD in 2018 and subsequently launched a national policy on safety and security in schools, widespread implementation remains a challenge due to limited awareness, lack of a legal framework, and inadequate financing,” she said.
The public hearing featured about 100 participants, including community leaders, education stakeholders, policymakers, security agencies, government officials, and civil society actors.
It provided a platform for citizens to demand accountability and amplify community voices on safe schools in Nigeria.
Participants stressed the need to prioritise the voices of children, teachers, parents, and communities.
They identified gaps in existing policies and practices and explored best practices and innovative solutions towards a comprehensive legal framework and resource plan.
The organisers listed what the Federal Government should do to activate SSD:
•Implement the guidelines for protecting schools and universities from military use.
•Collect reliable data on attacks and military use of schools and universities.
•Assist victims of attacks in a non-discriminatory manner.
•Investigate allegations of violations and prosecute perpetrators where appropriate.
•Develop and promote ‘conflict-sensitive’ approaches to education
•Seek to continue safe education during armed conflict and restore access to safe education after attacks.
•Support the work on the children and armed conflict agenda.
•Meet regularly to review the implementation of the declaration and the use of the guidelines.
Expectations from the government at all levels were highlighted. These include:
•Take immediate action to secure schools.
•Adopt and implement the national policy on safety, security and violence-free schools.
•Adopt and implement the national/state financing plan for immediate resources for schools.
•Domesticate the Safe School Declaration as a law.
A coalition of friends and associates of the late legal icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), on Friday demanded the immediate demolition of a four-storey apartment building erected beside his residence in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, describing it as a dangerous structure that threatens the safety of his family and desecrates his legacy.
At a press conference and protest held on Friday, April 25, 2025, the group decried what they described as a “brazen act of recklessness and injustice,” the construction of a four-storey apartment building directly beside Chief Fawehinmi’s residence in Ikeja GRA.
According to the group, the four-storey building, referred to as a “so-called apartment” but identified as a hotel, was erected with blatant disregard for Lagos State’s urban planning laws, particularly the mandatory three-metre minimum setback between buildings.
The event, organized shortly after Fawehinmi’s 87th posthumous birthday on April 22, was aimed at drawing public attention to the matter and demanding corrective action.
In a statement signed by leading activists and lawyers including Femi Falana (SAN), Clement (SAN), Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), Adindu Ugwuzor, Richard Akinnola, Edetaen Ojo, Bayo Alabidun, and Lanre Arogundade, the group emphasized that the gathering “marks the beginning of series of actions we might be compelled to embark upon until we attain that goal of justice.
“We wish to reiterate that Chief Gani uncommonly devoted almost his entire legal, social and political life to the advocacy for the rule of law, respect for the Constitution and the defence of the rights of Nigerians, especially the deprived and downtrodden masses, all in the quest for good governance and a country that we can all be proud of,” they said.
The coalition lamented that despite Fawehinmi’s sacrifices, his family continues to face threats and intimidation:
Activist lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN) has urged the Attorney-General of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN) to fast-track the prosecution of a suspect. 2023, Benjamin Best Nnayereugo (aka Kilaboi).
Falana said this has become necessary having confirmed that the Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department has completed an investigation into the cold murder of Miss Augusta Onuwabhagbe, a 21-year-old undergraduate of Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Falana, in a statement commended the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Interpol for the extradition of the murder suspect, Benjamin Best Nnayereugo Alias Kilaboi from Qatar.
Benjamin Best Nnayereugo was alleged to have brutally murdered his girlfriend, Miss Augusta Onuwabhagbe on July 13, 2023.
After the heinous act, the suspect escaped and left the country ”but we have continued to track him with a view to having him brought to Nigeria and prosecuted for murder,” Falana said.
The cause of justice would surely be served by the confirmation that Benjamin was extradited from Qatar to Nigeria on Saturday through the combined efforts of the offices of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Inspector General of Police and the International Police National Central Bureau.
“We thank the government of Nigeria for collaborating with our law firm in the successful extradition of the murder suspect.
“We are particularly indebted to the mother of the deceased, Mrs Okonye Cordelia Nneji, who furnished us with vital information on the movements of the suspect since he escaped from Nigeria two years ago. This is a challenge to all Nigerians to always pursue the cause of justice in order to end impunity in the country”, he said.
The N300 million donated to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) by the Rivers State Government for the hosting of the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) sparked a huge row after the Sole Administrator, Admiral Ibok-Kete Ibas (rtd.), demanded a refund following the venue change. Senior lawyers have weighed in on the way out, writes ADEBISI ONANUGA.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) found itself enmeshed in a huge storm after the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Admiral Ibok-Kete Ibas, demanded a refund of N300 million donated to the association.
He insisted that the donation was authorised by the suspended governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on the understanding that the Annual General Conference (AGC), billed for August 22 to 28, will be held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers capital.
Following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, which the NBA condemned as unconstitutional, the association chose Enugu as the host city in protest.
Following the demand for a refund, the NBA, in a statement by its AGC 2025 Planning Committee Chair Emeka Obegolu (SAN), clarified that it decided on Port Harcourt as the host city last August and that it was not subject to any bidding process or payment of any hosting rights.
“The host city has no hosting rights, and there is no representation by the NBA that the conference must be held in a chosen city.
“Traditionally, because of the enormous cost involved in hosting the AGC, the NBA Conference Planning Committee approaches organisations, agencies of government and state governments for support and the support requested is unconditional and not tied to hosting rights or any rights whatsoever.
“Recent NBA conferences have been supported by different state governments, corporate organisations, ministries, departments and agencies whose budgets accommodate corporate social responsibilities and share the same vision with the NBA.
“Such financial support is in the form of gifts, partnerships or sponsorships. The money from Rivers State was a gift and was not tied to any purported hosting right for the NBA AGC,” the NBA said.
However, the state government vowed to deploy all legal processes to retrieve the state’s resources if the NBA failed to willingly refund the money.
A statement by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to Rivers State Government, Hector Igbikiowubo, insisted that the records of the government showed that the N300 million was tied to the hosting of the AGC in the state.
The statement said: “The government outrightly rejects the NBA’s recent allegation that the N300 million payment made by the state was a ‘gift’ unrelated to hosting rights for the NBA AGC 2025.
“For clarity, the Rivers State Government’s records show that the payment of N300 million to the NBA was made with the mutual understanding that Rivers State would host the 2025 edition of the NBA AGC.
“The Rivers State Government entered into this arrangement with the NBA in good faith, with the understanding that hosting the conference in the state would attract significant economic benefits to our state, positively and directly impact the businesses of our people.
“The NBA’s unilateral decision to relocate the AGC 2025 against our mutual understanding and subsequent decision to withhold the N300 million paid for the purpose of hosting the NBA AGC 2025 in Rivers State is unethical and amounts to a breach of trust.
“Failure of the NBA to immediately refund the N300 million to the Rivers State Government will compel the implementation of all legal means to recover the property of the good people of Rivers State.
“We reaffirm our willingness to engage in partnerships with all professional bodies, including the NBA, but we will not accommodate exploitation of our people and the Rivers State Government.”
The development led to debate among lawyers on whether the NBA should return the money or not.
Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN) and Dr Ope Banwo argued that the money should be refunded.
“We have no basis for retaining the ‘gift’ from Rivers State, so NBA should refund the money immediately.
“We should not hide under any semantics or bureaucracy to retain the money,” Adegboruwa said.
He added that SANs should contribute N1 million each if necessary, if there is a shortfall, assuming part of the money has been spent.
For Banwo, returning the money is not debatable.
“If the NBA wants to retain its standing as the voice of justice in Nigeria, it must return that money,” he said.
Former NBA Vice President Onyekachi Ubani (SAN) disagreed, saying the NBA was not bound to return the money.
“The NBA is not for sale. But neither is it a monastery. It exists in the real world, funded by real people, facing real challenges,” Ubani said.
According to the SAN, the argument that a donation in itself constitutes a compromise of institutional independence lacks both legal foundation and factual proof.
“This is without prejudice to the NBA returning the fund if they are convinced that it is the right thing to do,” Ubani noted.
He, however, advised: “I am of the view that proper guidelines should be mapped out to guide the acceptance, and conditions well spelt out for future engagements with them.”
Other senior lawyers have weighed in on the debate.
These include Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaye, Chief Mike Ozekhome, Chief Wale Taiwo, Babatunde Fashanu and Dr. Wahab Shittu, all Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs).
Kalejaye backs NBA
Kalejaye regretted that crass politics and blackmail have been introduced into what ordinarily is a gift.
He said: “It is laughable that the standards of receiving gifts, whether solicited or unsolicited, are now being set very high because the NBA took a stand against the declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State.
“The sole administrator of Rivers claimed the money was paid as hosting rights. NBA says it is a gift.
“I would have thought that to press its case of being awarded a hosting right, the Administrator should have presented some documents which emanated from the NBA that gave the award.
“We all know how these things are done. Federal, State and even local government councils at times give financial support to formidable associations like the NBA, NMA and even ÀSUU to host their collegiate or general meetings. There is no string attached.
“I am very proud of the stand of the NBA on the Rivers on the issue.
“It showed that the N300m gift did not influence the NBA at all.
“The gift was not a personal gift from the then-sitting governor but from the coffers of the state government.
“It is wrong now to introduce crass legality into a gift that did not carry any legal obligation!
“I have heard talks about the NBA being asked to return the gift. On what ground may I say? The problem is that we play politics with everything in this country.
“The NBA, like other formidable professional associations are gatekeeper of the Nigerian state.
“To demonise the NBA in a situation where there has not been any ethical or legal infraction is not only being unfair to the NBA but also polluting the system and burning the bridge of interaction amongst the different segments of the Nigerian state. It is sad. Very sad.”
Hosting rights never monetised, says Ozekhome
Ozekhome believes a gift should be free from all encumbrances except where it is a “Greek gift”.
He said it is different from a bribe.
According to him, hosting rights are never monetised.
“When a government is going to host the NBA by traditional convention, many of them do give grants to the NBA to ease the conference that is coming up.
“The NBA wanted to host this AGC in Port Harcourt this year. Unfortunately, many intervening factors made this impossible,” he said.
According to him, the NBA was forced to relocate the AGC to Enugu “because having condemned the institutionalisation of the state of emergency and unconstitutional appointment of a sole administrator, it cannot be seen to blow hot and cold, hosting or holding the AGC in the same state being ruled by a Sole Administrator that is not democratically elected by the people”.
Ozekhome submitted that the N300 million already donated “towards NBA-AGC is not money that should be refunded to the sole administrator because it was money donated by the state government under a democratic regime”.
The SAN added: “An autocratic and selected regime cannot come and ask that money given by its predecessor in office, which was done in the interest of the state, but whose interest is now being jeopardised by the appointment of the sole administrator, should be returned.
“I think it should be a no-go area. We should not have any regret in not returning that money and in shifting the hosting of the AGC to Enugu state.
“I had initially said elsewhere that if the money was tied to the AGC, then it should be returned.
“But on a further reconsideration of the matter, having looked at the NBA constitution, I discovered that it would be a breach of the NBA constitution to return such money voluntarily donated to the body.”
Why money should be returned, by Taiwo
Taiwo believes the NBA should return the money.
He said: “In the light of that realisation that when Port Harcourt was named as the host of the NBA AGC 2025, the money now in issue was donated to the NBA.
“Whatever is donated or provided as financial support for the hosting of the AGC is recouped by the state through the injections into the local economy and the taxes and levies paid by businesses during the duration of the AGC.
“Should the NBA oblige such a demand? In my view, the NBA should be mindful of the need to protect its integrity.
“For too long, the NBA appears to have become too cosy with governments at both the federal and various states.
“The NBA is supposed to be at the forefront of the promotion of the rule of law.
“The NBA should be the guiding conscience and a moderating influence in our national life.
“With financial donations like the one now in issue, it may be a bit difficult for the NBA to maintain its independence.
“I think that’s the subtle message the Sole Administrator was trying to pass across.
“I believe that a refund to the coffers of Rivers will ensure that the NBA can maintain its independence and not be seen to be taking sides in the crisis in Rivers State.
“The purpose of the donation is to support the hosting of the AGC. If the venue is changed, let the fund so donated be returned,” he said.
Fashanu: Return money when democracy is restored
For Fashanu, the NBA was given the money because it was to host the AGC in Rivers State.
He said since the hosting of the conference has been moved to another state, the proper thing to do is to return the money.
“It is wrong of the NBA legally and morally to keep the money in the circumstances,” he said.
Fashanu added that, since understandably, the NBA opposes the appointment of Ibas, “it can make a statement that it’ll refund the money to Rivers State, not through the Sole Administrator, but when democracy is restored.”
Way out, by Shittu
Shittu noted that the controversy underscores the ethical complexities that arise when professional bodies accept financial support from public institutions.
He said it raises critical questions about transparency, institutional independence, and public accountability.
According to him, accepting large, unrestricted funds from a state government, especially during a politically sensitive period, risks compromising that independence or, at the very least, the public perception of it.
He pointed out that UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers emphasise that legal practitioners— and by extension, their representative bodies—must operate free from improper influence, particularly from the executive arm of government.
Shittu noted that in the Rivers case, the issue is not only the receipt of the funds but also how the NBA’s subsequent actions—relocating the AGC—could be interpreted.
He said that while the NBA asserts that its actions were based on principle, retaining the N300 million may give the impression that the association is leveraging public funds for private events without accountability.
He said a donation of N300 million should have triggered a formal review, agreement, and public disclosure.
Shittu cited the Law Society of Ontario and the UK Bar Council, which prohibit gifts that could be perceived to influence decision-making or compromise independence but encourage full disclosure and prior approval of any such sponsorship or funding.
He said in the case of the NBA, the absence of a written agreement or transparent documentation regarding the conditions of the gift has fuelled suspicion and weakened the NBA’s ethical standing.
He noted that the NBA has characterised the N300 million as a “gift” or “donation” rather than a hosting fee.
“Ethically, misrepresenting the nature of a gift or failing to clarify its terms violates best practices.
“The International Bar Association (IBA) strongly discourages acceptance of ambiguous donations, especially from governments, unless conditions are clearly defined and documented. Accepting and retaining such funds in the face of contested intent is not just a legal issue—it’s an ethical one,” he argued.
Shittu stressed the imperative of the NBA acting with transparency, integrity, and leadership.
To navigate the present situation responsibly and in line with global ethical standards, he advised the bar association to commission an independent audit to review the circumstances surrounding the receipt of the N300 million.
He advised that the audit should verify:
• The communication and documentation (if any) between the NBA and the Rivers State Government;
• The stated or implied conditions attached to the donation;
• How the funds have been used so far (if at all);
• Whether the use aligns with ethical and professional standards.
He believes that the audit will provide a factual basis for any decision the NBA make and demonstrate accountability to its members and the public.
‘Place controversial fund in escrow’
Shittu further advised that the controversial fund should be placed in escrow to avoid further erosion of trust or claims of financial impropriety, with a neutral financial institution such as the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He said this move would signal good faith and neutrality while allowing time for resolution without pressure.
The SAN suggested that the NBA should initiate a formal dialogue with the Rivers State Government rather than allow the matter to escalate into litigation.
“A roundtable discussion—potentially involving respected senior lawyers or Bar elders as mediators—can clarify intentions, resolve misunderstandings, and protect the reputation of both parties,” he advised.
Shittu urged the NBA to adopt a clear, public-facing Gift and Donation Policy, guided by international best practices.
Such a policy, he said, should: “Define what types of gifts or donations are acceptable; set procedures for reviewing and approving large or government-sourced donations; require full disclosure and documentation of terms and conditions; and mandate periodic reporting of all significant donations received.”
He said this will help prevent future controversies and uphold the NBA’s ethical standards.
“This is a defining moment for the NBA. The legal profession in Nigeria, and globally, rests on the pillars of independence, integrity, and public trust.
“The NBA’s response to this challenge will either reinforce or undermine those values.
“By choosing transparency, accountability, and dialogue, the NBA will not only resolve this particular issue but also set a new ethical standard for professional associations across Africa,” Shittu added.
Justice Rahman Oshodi of an Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in ikeja has sentenced a man, Nnanna Daniel, to 14 years imprisonment for attempt to commit sexual assault by penetration of a 13-year -old girl.
Justice Oshodi convicted and sentenced Daniel after he pleaded guilty to an amended one-count charge bordering on sexual assault by penetration.
The defendant was initially arraigned on a charge of defilement on July 27, 2021 and he pleaded not guilty.
During the proceedings of the court on April 15, 2025, the prosecutor, I.D Solarin, informed the court that the defendant through his counsel S.N Nwogu had entered a plea and sentence agreement which necessitated amending the charge to attempt to commit sexual assault by penetration.
The amended charge was read to Daniel and he pleaded guilty.
Justice Rahman Oshodi convicted and sentenced the defendant to 14 years imprisonment having found him guilty.
“Nnanna Daniel, you have pleaded guilty to the offence of attempt to commit sexual assault by penetration. The court has carefully considered the Plea and Sentence Agreement and the circumstances of this case
“Sexual offences against children represent a grave violation of trust and cause profound harm to victims, their families, and the wider community.
“The prosecutrix in this case was a child of merely 13 years at the time of this incident – a young person entitled to protection, not exploitation.
“Having considered all relevant factors, I hereby sentence you to 14 years imprisonment, with the sentence deemed to have commenced from the date of your remand on May 18, 2018.
“Additionally, under the terms of the Plea Bargain, your family shall ensure your rehabilitation upon release, and you shall not have any direct or indirect contact with the prosecutrix or any member of her family.
“Furthermore, under sections 33 and 38 of the Domestic and Sexual
Violence Agency Law of Lagos State 2021, you shall be registered as a sex offender, and your details shall be entered into the Sex Offenders Register maintained by the Lagos State Government,” he said.
